Sorry Brainiacs, This Common Sense Quiz Stumps Even The Smartest People
- by Danielle Lasher
- – on
- in Mind Twisters
Calling all trivia night champions! This quiz is for those who used to take the crown every Wednesday night down at the old brew pub. Not just trivia fans, not just those on the winning team, this quiz is for the winning member of the winning team that won every week. This quiz is for the people who collect information and facts like others collect quarters and stamps. The masters of odd information, the knower of all small facts. Trivia is a timeless tradition, and though those who don’t understand the joys of it may pronounce that knowing so many seemingly useless facts has nothing to do with actual intelligence true trivia fans know the truth—there’s no telling when one will need to know the capitol of all 50 states, or the color of Jupiter’s third moon.
Not for the faint of heart, or the scattered of brains, this trivia quiz has all the elements one would expect out of their favorite pizza place Tuesday night bingo—only in the very handy internet format that modern individuals know and love. These are facts everyone learned at some point, but only the brainiest of them all will remember the answers to all 50 of the following common-sense questions.
What is the world's largest island?
When one thinks of islands, most likely their mind wanders to lush tropical getaways, or secluded private vacations. Maybe they imagine millionaires cooped up on private golf courses, or the infamous laid-back island life. But not all islands are in the tropics, and not all islands are created equal. Some islands are so small no one can live on them, and some are big enough to be their own countries. Who remembers which of the following is the world’s biggest island?
What is the longest river in the world?
Known for its endless temptation of explorers, and for the vast fertile basin that it supports, the world’s longest river is a subject of much fascination with scholars from all fields. Tourists flock to its banks to experience its wonder, and to witness the assortment of animals that live within and around it. This river winds through several countries, but people often get this question wrong, mistaking another river as the longest in the world. What is the world’s longest river?
What is the largest ocean in the world?
About 71% of the total surface of earth is covered in water, and of that water 96% of it can be found in oceans. Some people get confused about the difference between an ocean and a sea- an ocean is always larger than a sea. All continents are bounded on at least one side by an ocean, and their watery expanses have been enchanting human explorers since our earliest days as a species. Who can remember the name of the world’s largest ocean?
How many countries are there in the world?
Though we learned them all in school, it can be hard remembering the names of all the countries. Most people can’t even remember all the names of the states in the United States, or the countries in Europe, let alone all the countries in the world! This is fair, considering that it isn't a topic of every day conversation, but true Brainiac’s should at least be able to remember the number of countries in the world- even if they can’t name them all! How many countries are there?
What is the diameter of the Earth?
The third planet out from the sun, humanities terrestrial home vacillates between seeming huge and untamable, and not quite big enough for us all. Since they began exploring, humans were had all sorts of questions about the earth. What size was it, what shape was it, what was under the ground, how did day and night work, where did water come from etc.? Modern science has explained all of these, but let’s see who can remember one of the simpler ones- what is the diameter of earth?
Where is the oldest forest on Earth?
There are many types of forests on earth. Some are young, and some are old. Some are big, and some are small. Some are old and giant- some are young and giant! To the untrained eye, it can be very difficult to gauge the age of a forest just by looking at it. Luckily, someone has done the work of figuring that out, and so anyone who wants to can visit the oldest forest on earth whenever they like. Where on earth is the oldest forest?
What is the capital city of Spain?
The rains on the plains down in Spain. Whether the country of Spain calls to mind a children's rhyme, luxurious spreads of tapas and wine, ancient architecture, or something else, this European country truly has something for everyone. The modern country is known for its olive oil and its cured ham obsession. Spain has both beautiful countryside and flourishing urban areas. There are many famous cities in Spain, but only one of them is the countries capitol. What is the capital city of Spain?
Which of the following DOES NOT have an underground railway system?
When most people not from the United Kingdom think of transportation in the UK, they think of cherry red double decker busses zooming through the crowded streets of London. While these buses do of course exist, a handful of British cities have also adopted underground railways systems. Or maybe a handful is an exaggeration… There are only four cities in the entire of the United Kingdom which have underground railways systems. Which of the following British cities DOES NOT have a functioning underground railways system?
Which European country can the city of Prague be found?
Nicknamed ‘the city of a hundred spires’ Prague is a beautiful European town, with a fascinating history and lots of charm. This city, which is the capitol of the country in which it can be found, is known for its old town, its beautiful churches, and its medieval Astronomical Clock which puts on an hourly show for passerby. This city is the 14th largest city in the European Union! In which European country is the city of Prague to be found?
Which of the following individuals is credited with inventing the potato chip?
There is no snack food quite like the potato chip. A global go to when it comes to a handy dandy treat to munch and crunch be it at a birthday party or a sports game, potato chips are universally loved. Nowadays, it is possible to find potato chips in just about every flavor imaginable- from lightly salted to maple syrup. But at one point, there were no potato chips! Which of the following individuals is credited with inventing the potato chip?
Which actress has been awarded with most Oscars?
Ah, the Oscars. Celebrity glitz and glam, one night only, extra special every year. The Oscars are a highly coveted award, which every Hollywood star dreams of attaining. Some are famous for working what seems like their entire career with only that goal in mind. Others are famous for winning Oscars left and right. One actress in particular, seemed to win Oscars so often it was almost offensive to everyone else. Which actress has been awarded with the most Oscars?
Who was the director of the Lord of The Rings trilogy?
When it comes to fantasy series, few are as well-known or as well-loved as the Lord of the Rings. In recent years the series has expanded beyond the original trilogy to include two movies on one of Tolkien's other works- the Hobbit. But there is nothing like that old school magic of the first three films- The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Tours, and The Return of the King. Who was the director of the Lord of The Rings trilogy?
Who played the role of Neo in The Matrix?
Beloved by 90s film viewers and conspiracy theorists alike, the Matrix trilogy was an action packed, reality bending thrill ride. The series, which consists of three films, follows the adventures of a man named Neo, who is awoke to the fact that humanity is being used as batteries, and that lived reality is nothing more than a simulation. Known for bending time, dodging bullets, and rocking his black trench coat, Neo was loved by fans. Who played the role of Neo in The Matrix?
“We’ll always have Paris.” In which classic film did Humphrey Bogart utter this famous line?
Before Brad Pitt and Daniel Craig, before Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, Humphrey Bogart was one of the original Hollywood heartthrobs. Working in the 40s and 50s, Bogart made fans everywhere swoon when he appeared on screen. In one film, Bogart peered deep into the eyes of his leading lady and said to her “We’ll always have Paris”. This line is often repeated out of context, but true know it all’s will remember the title of the film. In which classic film did Humphrey Bogart utter this famous line?
What is the biggest lake in the world?
Everyone should know that there is a region in America called the Great Lake region. This area is known for its truly giant lakes, which make the rest of the lakes in the country look puny and small in comparison. This lake is the third largest fresh water lake in the world, and the largest in the country. It is the furthest north of the Great Lakes. Who can remember which of the following takes the title of the biggest lake in America?
But what is the scientific name of the Northern lights?
The shining magical phenomenon colloquially known as the Northern Lights is a semi common sight in the northern parts of the world. This phenomena results in what looks like wavy bands of different colored lights that stretch across the sky, giving viewers the feeling that they are witnessing something truly beyond this world. The lights are best seen at night and go by several other common names which most people will know. But what is the scientific name of the Northern lights?
Which bulbs were ones used as a form of currency?
Before humanity created money in its modern form, many things were traded for goods and services. In some places, it is still the norm to trade other goods and services for what you want- a fish for a haircut for example. In other places, more specific currencies were the norm- such as the use of one type of sea shell. In one culture, the currency used was a flower bulb which could be used to purchase items. Which bulbs were ones used as a form of currency?
What color jersey is donned by the winners of each stage of the famous Tour De France?
Easily the most famous bicycle race of all time, the Tour de France is an all Men’s race that takes place every year. The race consists of 21 stages, over a span of three total weeks. That’s a lot of time spent on a bicycle! At the end of each stage, the person who has finished the stages in the best time is awarded a special jersey to show their leading status in the next stage. What color jersey is donned by the winners of each stage of the famous Tour De France?
What ancient civilization worshiped cats?
There are two types of people in this world- cat people, and dog people. On civilization in human history stands out as being an entire nation of cat lovers. These historical individuals literally worshiped cats! They had statues in their honor, and cats were considered sacred beings. Cat people will say this is how cats should be treated, and the cats themselves would probably like to return to the good old days when society recognized their divinity! What ancient civilization worshiped cats?
What is the name of this dog show?
This question is for the dog people out there! Once a year, the world watches New York City, as it hosts a dog show. This show, which first started in 1877 was immediately successful, and has only grown in recognition and popularity since. The show itself is named after a hotel where men used to meet to brag about their hunting accomplishments. The men eventually bought up a kennel which they gave the same name. The kennel eventually grew to host the now infamous dog show. What is the name of this dog show?
What is the last name of this impressive U.S. based tennis sister team?
Considered by many to be the top women of Tennis, this pair of sisters is each impressive enough on their own, but together they truly shine. The sisters are both worlds ranked women’s tennis players, and one of them is the top women’s tennis player in the world. With only one year of age gap between them, the two have had their whole careers together. What is the last name of this impressive U.S. based tennis sister team?
In what year did the first Formula 1 race take place?
Formula 1 racing is so specialized that the cars zooming around the track might not even look like cars to passerby. Formula 1 is the highest class of single-seater auto racing. Formula one is sanctioned by the Federation Internationale de L’Automobile and it is the peak of car racing. Single-seater means of course that there is only one driver in the car at a time. These races take place all over the world. In what year did the first Formula 1 race take place?
Which of the six chess pieces moves in an L pattern?
Originally a game to practice war strategy, chess is loved by players of all shapes and sizes worldwide. It can be played online, or in almost any park in any country. Chess gathers together board game lovers and strategists hoping to prove their worth. There are 6 types of chess pieces, which can all move in different ways across the board, which is an 8x8 grid of 64 squares. Which of the six chess pieces moves in an L pattern?
In the World Cup, who was nicknamed ‘the Divine Ponytail?’
There is no sport more beloved worldwide than football (soccer in some countries). Football is a huge deal internationally, and the World Cup is one of the most exciting events in the sports world. Residents of countries worship players on their team, such as one player who was given the nickname; ’The Divine Ponytail’ which was given to a player for his signature hairstyle, his talent on the field, and his Buddhist beliefs. In football, who was nicknamed ‘the Divine Ponytail?’
How many buttons/valves are there on a trumpet?
One of the most well-known brass instruments, a trumpet is also technically a wind instrument. It is known for its shiny metallic body, and its bold sound. A trumpet is played by a person who puts it to their lips and blows through it, using their fingers to work keys on the body. These keys press down on valves, which modulate the air flow through the instrument and effect the sound that comes out. How many valves does a trumpet have?
What year was Shakespeare born?
With over four billion copies of his works sold, William Shakespeare is not only an Elizabethan era poet and playwright, but one of the greatest and most well-read authors of all time. Shakespeare plays can be split into three categories- Comedy, Tragedy, and History. He wrote at least 37 plays, possibly more, not including the ones that he collaborated on. But when did it all star? Shakespeare was born in the little town of Stratford Upon Avon in what year?
In what year were cell phones invented?
It is hard to imagine now a time before cell phones. Even the not so distant past before smart phones were common seems a strange and off-putting memory. People do everything on their phones now, they are phones, computers, and cameras all wrapped into one. Not so long ago, Martin Cooper, a researcher at Motorola, created the first cell phone. In a very stylish move, he used it first to call his rival at Bell Labs, who was working on the same project. In what year were cell phones invented?
In what year was the Panama Canal completed?
One of the largest and most impressive feats of engineering in its time, the Panama Canal project was undertaken first by the French and then by workers from the United States. The project, which focused on the creation of a canal which would cut across the Isthmus of Panama, was inspired by a desire to cut down on transportation time from the Atlantic to the Pacific oceans, and to help ships avoid the hazards of Cape Horn. In what year was the Panama Canal completed?
What was the name of this once popular piece of clothing?
In the mid to late 19th century, it was common for women of a certain class to wear a prop under their dresses. This prop, which was fastened around the waist, was used to expand the fullness of the rear of the dress and created an elevated shelf like protrusion just below the lower back. This prop was not just fashionable- it was also practical, because it helped keep heavy fabric from losing its shape and dragging on the ground. What was the name of this once popular piece of clothing?
In what year did the long Cold War finally come to an end?
Famous for being histories longest war without a single confrontation, the Cold War began after the end of the Second World War and was a war of tension between the United States and the then Soviet Union. With the ever-present threat of nuclear war, and the following nuclear winter, hovering about the globe, the Cold War was a time of worry about bomb drills. In what year did the long Cold War finally come to an end?
Who can remember the name of Jamaica's capitol?
Ah Jamaica. Land of stunning natural beauty, white sandy beaches, palm trees and jerk chicken. The island nation that gave the world reggae- and more specifically Bob Marley. Jamaica is a small island in the Caribbean with a mountainous topography. The island is covered in forests and surrounded by reefs. It has many vibrant cities and is the fourth largest island country in the Caribbean. Like all countries, Jamaica has a capitol city. Who can remember the name of Jamaica's capitol?
When did the Euro begin circulation?
The euro is a traveler’s dream- one unified currency for the entire European Union, meaning that you can hop from Italy to Spain, to Greece and then over to France, and not have to worry about changing money. This makes it easier for people living in the European Union, and those who are just visiting. Of course, not all the countries in the EU use the currency- only 19 out of 28-member states have adopted the currency. When did the Euro begin circulation?
Who wrote the poems Iliad and the Odyssey?
Perhaps two of the best-known works of poetry in all human history are the Iliad and the Odyssey. Both set in ancient Greece, and penned by the same author, one follows the other in history. The Iliad is set during the Trojan War, during the ten-year siege of the city of Troy by a collection of Greek city states. The second poem- the Odyssey- focuses on the epic journey homeward of Odysseus, leader of Ithaca, after the fall of Troy. Who wrote these epic poems?
How old are the Miriam Webster ancient dictionaries?
When one thinks of a dictionary now, they more than likely think of Miriam Webster. The name has become synonymous with dictionaries, which are books containing definitions of all the words in each language. There are also dictionaries that have words in two dictionaries- to translate. But there are many dictionaries other than Webster, and there have been many more throughout history. The world’s oldest known form of dictionaries are Cuneiform tablets, with bilingual Sumerian-Akkadian word lists. How old are these ancient dictionaries?
What is the name of this ballet?
There are few things that say the holidays quite like this two-act ballet about a girl who is given a special present that comes alive on Christmas. The ballet, which was originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov but is best known for its score, which was composed by Pyotr Illyich Tchaikovsky. The ballet includes such famous scenes as the dance of the sugar plum fairy and it is an elegantly choreographed holiday treat sure to delight anyone who watches it. What is the name of this ballet?
What is the most watched Super Bowl in history?
For sports lovers in the United States, there is no holiday like Super Bowl Sunday. This is the day when everyone turns on their tv and turns off everything else. People spend months getting ready for the event, which pits two football teams against each other in a match for national glory. There are whole menus dedicated to the day, and game snacks are a highly important part of the ritual. But one Super Bowl was watched more than all the others. What is the most watched Super Bowl in history?
What is the red liquid in a Shirley temple?
Remember Shirley temples? No, not the child actress, the fizzy drink that was popular in soda shops and diners, or any child's birthday party where the parents felt like getting fancy. A Shirley temple is known, rather like the actress, for its bright red finish. For the actress, this bright red was from her famous curls. In terms of the drink, the color comes from something else. The drink is simple- soda, something red, and a maraschino cherry garnish. What is the red liquid in a Shirley temple?
How much does the world’s most expensive ice cream Sunday cost?
Though it is technically only the 5th most expensive desert in the world, the Frozen Haute Chocolate ice cream sundae made by Serendipity 3 is the most expensive ice cream sundae in the world. This is in large part because it comes with an 18kt gold and diamond bracelet and a golden spoon! Not a dish for mere mortals, this Sunday costs about as much as a car in most states. How much does the world’s most expensive ice cream Sunday cost?
In what year did Dante Alighieri pass away?
Studied by literature students at universities worldwide, Dante Alighieri's epic 14th century poem ‘divine comedy’ consists of three texts, which follow a central character’s decent into, though, and out of, the underworld. The texts, which were originally published in Italian, have been translated into many languages, by many translators, and have inspired cartoon versions and cinematic spin offs of the tale. In order, the three texts are Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. In what year did the author of these works, Dante, pass away?
In what year was Beethoven born?
Famed German Composer Ludwig van Beethoven is one of the most important classical composers of all time. Over the course of his career, he saw the transition between the classical and Romantic eras in Classical music and shaped forever the genre as we know it today. As a composer, he was prolific and well loved, and his music will surely last for centuries to come. On top of all that, he could not hear his own music due to his deafness! In what year was Beethoven born?
Into what body of water does the water from the Nile eventually drain?
The Nile has been giving life to civilizations for almost as long as written history can record. The river, which is one of the longest in the world, is found on the continent of Africa, and most people know of it for its location in Egypt. But where does all that water go when it is done flowing? After it has made the journey from its source, into what body of water does the water from the Nile eventually drain?
What is the name of the former first family’s dog?
There is a special kind of attention paid to the habits of people in power. Ordinary individuals want to know about celebrities and rulers’ favorite foods, favorite movies, fashion choices and book lists. They want to know diet choices and pet names. One beloved dog belongs to the Obama family. This dog, who is a male Portuguese Water Dog, is well known for his shaggy brown coat, little white diamond shaped bib of fur, and sunny disposition. What is the name of the former first family’s dog?
How many people live in Tokyo Japan?
Japan- best known for Sushi, Anime, and Samurais, the island country of Japan is a gorgeous place filled with smart people. They have fast trains and futuristic seeming cities. One of these cities, is Tokyo. Tokyo is the biggest city in Japan and one of the largest (by population) in the entire world. Tokyo, like most big cities, has many types of people living within its boundaries, and some commuters who take the train in to work every day. How many people live in Tokyo Japan?
Who is the author of this poem?
“No man is an island entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, as well as if a promontory were, as well as any manner of thy friends or of thine own were; any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind. And therefore, never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.” This poem is mainly remembered for its opening line, and only true Brainiacs will remember the author-
What is the world’s smallest country?
Countries come in all shapes and sizes. Some are bounded by ocean, others are known for their land locked status. Some are known for their beautiful forests, some for mountains, some food, others for literature. Just as with everything else that can be measured on this earth- there is a biggest country, and there is a smallest country. This country can be found in Europe, which is no surprise really considering the relatively small size of many European countries. What is the world’s smallest country?
How tall is Mt. Everest?
Not all mountains are created equal. One mountain, high in the Himalayas, towers above them all. Everest has been attracting climbers for as long as there have been mountain climbers, and many have perished on its hostile slopes. Even the most experienced climbers treat Everest with respect and caution. It reaches such an extreme elevation that most who summit it must do so with oxygen tanks! Only true Brainiacs will know the exact height of the infamous Mt. Everest-
In what year was Monopoly released?
Of all the board games ever made, there is none that stands out quite so much as Monopoly. The game, which was marketed by the Parker Brothers, is famous for its ability to tear families and friends apart with its highly competitive capitalist game play. Since its original sales, there have been many spins off versions of the game- including Lord of the Rings Monopoly, Star Wars Monopoly, Harry Potter Monopoly and many more. In what year was Monopoly released?
What is the favorite ice cream flavor world wide?
I scream, You Scream, we all scream for Ice Cream! There is nothing like a delicious scoop of one’s favorite Ice Cream to cool someone down on a summer day. Take it for a stroll through town, or for a day on the beach. Plop a slice on apple pie, or in root bear for an even sweeter treat. There are endless flavors of ice cream, and so endless possibilities. But one flavor stands out worldwide as peoples favorite ice cream flavor. What flavor is this?
How long has Elizabeth II been the leader of England as of 2018?
One of the world’s longest reigning leaders, Elizabeth II of The U.K. is well-known and well-loved worldwide. This leader is a prolific woman and a lover of brooches. Though the U.K. also has a parliamentary system, the Monarchy is still a respected part of the nation’s system. Elizabeth has seen the country through several decades of history and seems like she will continue reigning for a while. How long has Elizabeth II been the leader of England as of 2018?
What is the largest source of freshwater on Earth?
Of all the water on the planet, only about 3.5% of it is fresh water, which is to say not salt water, which is to say potentially drinkable. This water comes in many forms and can be found all over the globe. This question covers something that everyone was taught in school, but let’s see who can remember this common-sense fact! Of all the forms it is found in, what is the largest source of freshwater on Earth?